During half term, a group of 55 students enjoyed a four-day tour of Berlin, exploring historical sites central to the city’s divided past. The trip included significant stops at landmarks and museums highlighting the Cold War era, offering students an insightful look at Berlin’s role in modern history.
The first stop on the itinerary was Checkpoint Charlie where students engaged with exhibits showcasing the creative and daring escape attempts made by East Berliners seeking freedom in the West. These included modified vehicles and concealed compartments in suitcases. From there, the group visited the Palace of Tears, a transit station where separated families could briefly reunite before returning to their divided lives. This impactful experience provided students with a powerful perspective on the human cost of the Berlin Wall.
The following day, students toured the Allied Museum, deepening their understanding of the Western Allies’ efforts to maintain freedom within the city. The highlight of the day was an excursion to a previously hidden section of Berlin, home to the notorious Stasi Prison. Guided by experts, the students learned about life under an authoritarian regime, sparking thoughtful questions and discussions among the group.
The tour continued with a visit to Schloss Cecilienhof in Potsdam, where students stood in the very rooms occupied by world leaders Truman, Stalin, Churchill and Atlee during the Potsdam Conference. Set up to mirror the original 1945 layout, the conference table and surroundings offered a unique glimpse into the setting of these historic decisions.
On the third day, the group visited the Stasi Headquarters, where displays of extensive surveillance equipment, including hidden cameras, highlighted the extreme lengths taken by the regime to monitor its citizens. The day also included a visit to the East Side Gallery, where murals painted on the remaining sections of the Berlin Wall depict the city’s past struggles and present hope.
The final day wrapped up with a panoramic view of Berlin from the iconic TV Tower and a reflective visit to the Berlin Wall Memorial. The tour left students with a profound understanding of Berlin’s layered history and a lasting appreciation for the resilience of its people.
